The veins that are twisted and swollen are known as varicose veins. These veins are located very close to the skin surface and tend to develop into superficial veins. Leg veins are considered the most frequently affected by varicose veins due to the standing and walking posture, as it tends to put more strain on the veins of the lower body. These veins are visible as blue or purple bulges that bulge in the legs, feet, and ankles, which may be painful and itchy.
During the condition, faulty or damaged valves in the veins allow blood to flow in the wrong direction or pool. More than 23% of the adult population is affected by varicose veins. Varicose veins are not very dangerous for most of the population, despite the fact that they may be unattractive and uncomfortable. Serious health concerns such as blood clots may occur in some of the cases that are the outcome of severe varicose veins. Visit Manipal Hospitals, the endovascular surgery hospital in Goa for the treatment of Varicose veins.
Causes of Varicose veins
Varicose veins develop due to increased blood pressure in the veins. The blood flows towards the heart through the one-way valves within the veins, which results in the enlargement of the veins. The body posture of the individual, such as sitting or standing for a prolonged period of time, causes blood to accumulate in the veins of the legs, which in turn increases pressure in the veins. Hence, stretching of veins occurs due to the increased pressure. It may make the walls of the veins weak and cause damage to the valves.
The common symptoms of blood clots include pain, swelling, and redness of the legs. Sometimes, blood clots tend to occur in the arms and other body parts.
Treatment of Varicose Veins
Specific treatment for varicose veins is determined as per the diagnosis done by the healthcare provider. Treatments are not mandatory if the person does not have any symptoms of varicose veins. But the condition may worsen if no treatment is provided to the individual. Some treatments include:
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Surgery
Surgical removal of the veins is required if varicose veins are large using general anaesthesia. Consult with our endovascular surgeon in Goa to know more about the surgery.
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Ligation and stripping
It involves two incisions, one in the pelvic region near the top of the target vein and the other one far down the leg, either at the ankle or knee. The top of the vein is tied and sealed. A thin, flexible wire is used to pull the vein from the bottom.
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Sclerotherapy
Small and medium-sized varicose veins are treated by injecting a chemical that closes them. No blood flow is observed and other veins take over these veins.
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Radiofrequency ablation
It involves small incision either above or below the knee through an ultrasound scan. A catheter (a small tube) is then inserted into the vein. Later, a probe is inserted into the catheter that emits radiofrequency energy. This radiofrequency energy heats up the veins, causing them to break down the vein’s wall and close by sealing or shutting.
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Endovenous laser treatment
It uses a catheter placed into the patient’s vein. Later, a small laser is inserted into the catheter, placing it into the target vein and providing energy bursts to heat the vein and shut it completely. An ultrasound scan is used to guide the laser to the vein.
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Trans-illuminated powered phlebectomy
This procedure involves a skin incision and the use of an endoscopic trans-illuminator, which transmits a special light through it. The target veins are then sliced and removed using a suction instrument through the wound.
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Home remedies
It is used for pain reduction and to prevent the worsening of varicose veins. Some common types of home remedies include:
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Regular exercises
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Maintaining a moderate body weight
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Legs raising
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Avoiding the prolonged body posture of standing and sitting
Some over-the-counter natural treatments are used, mostly including topical creams and emollients. It provides relief from pain and improves the general appearance of varicose veins.
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Compression stockings
These are elastic stockings that squeeze veins to keep blood from pooling. Hence, blood circulation is improved. These give better outcomes when used regularly.
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Cyanoacrylate glue occlusion
It involves injecting some specialized glue into the affected veins. This glue is an adhesive that closes the veins, preventing blood flow and providing ease and some relief to the symptoms.
Consultant - Endovascular Surgery And Interventional Radiology
Manipal Hospitals, Goa
